Ex-police authority chief bailed

Redcar and Cleveland councillor Dave McLuckie did not enter a plea during his brief appearance at Newcastle Crown Court.

At a previous hearing, the 51-year-old, of Linden Grove, Great Ayton, North Yorkshire, indicated he would deny the charge.

A plea and case management hearing will be held on January 18.

The former Cleveland Police Authority chairman, who is not receiving legal aid, planned to instruct Robert Smith QC to conduct his defence, the court heard.

The charge relates to an allegation that he persuaded a man named Maurice Ward to accept responsibility for an endorsable road traffic offence in 2005.

A date for the trial, expected to last five days, will be set later.

McLuckie was bailed on condition that he does not contact prosecution witnesses.